Marañones 2023

Maranones works in the Sierra de Gredos foothills within the Vinos de Madrid denomination, a high-altitude zone now valued for fragrant, elegant Garnacha. This wine is made entirely from Grenache grown across three plots on north-facing slopes at 750 to 850 metres, where the cooler exposure and altitude slow ripening and preserve freshness. The vines are around 50 to 70 years old and farmed organically, giving low yields of concentrated, aromatic fruit. Gredos sits on granite and sandy soils, which drain freely and lend the wine a savoury, mineral edge rather than the weight Garnacha shows on richer ground. After harvest the grapes are cold macerated to draw colour and aroma gently, then fermented with native yeasts before twelve months in French oak, a measured ageing that adds spice and rounds the tannin while keeping the variety's perfume. The colour is a bright, translucent ruby. The nose leads with raspberry, cherry and rose over pepper, dried herbs and a stony, earthy note. The palate is medium bodied with fine tannin and fresh acidity, finishing savoury and lifted. Serve at 16 degrees. Good with lamb, game and mushroom dishes.